Hummus with Harissa / Harissa Hummus

Chickpeas: These legumes form the base of the hummus, providing a creamy texture and a mild, nutty flavor.

Tahini: A paste made from ground sesame seeds, adding a rich, nutty flavor and creamy consistency to the hummus.

Olive oil: Adds a smooth texture and enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.

Garlic: Provides a pungent, aromatic flavor that complements the other ingredients.

Lemon juice: Adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the tahini and olive oil.

Harissa: A spicy North African chili paste that adds heat and depth of flavor to the hummus.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other spices.

Water: Helps achieve the desired consistency for the hummus.

When making hummus, it's essential to blend the chickpeas thoroughly to achieve a creamy texture. To enhance the smoothness, peel the chickpeas by gently rubbing them between your hands or using a clean kitchen towel. This extra step removes the skins and results in a silkier hummus. Additionally, gradually add the water while blending to control the consistency, ensuring it doesn't become too runny.

• Chickpeas - Substitute with white beans: White beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a good alternative to chickpeas in hummus.

• Tahini - Substitute with sunflower seed butter: Sunflower seed butter provides a similar nutty flavor and creamy consistency as tahini.

• Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and similar healthy fat profile, making it a suitable replacement for olive oil.

• Garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the other ingredients in the hummus.

• Lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor, which can brighten up the hummus.

• Harissa - Substitute with sriracha: Sriracha offers a similar level of heat and a slightly tangy flavor that can mimic the spiciness of harissa.

• Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a similar salty flavor along with a bit of umami depth.

• Ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a slightly citrusy and earthy flavor that can complement the other spices in the hummus.

• Water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can add extra flavor and depth to the hummus while maintaining the desired consistency.

• To store your hummus with harissa, transfer it to an airtight container. Make sure the container is clean and dry before adding the hummus.
• Drizzle a thin layer of olive oil on top of the hummus before sealing the container. This helps to keep it moist and prevents it from drying out.
• Place the container in the refrigerator. Your hummus should stay fresh for up to a week.
• If you plan to freeze the hummus, use a freezer-safe container. Leave a little space at the top of the container as the hummus may expand slightly when frozen.
• Label the container with the date so you can keep track of its freshness.
• When you're ready to use the frozen hummus, transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. Avoid thawing it at room temperature to maintain its texture and flavor.
• Once thawed, give the hummus a good stir to reincorporate any separated ingredients. You may need to add a little olive oil or lemon juice to restore its creamy consistency.
• For best results, consume the thawed hummus within 3-4 days.

• Place the hummus in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Transfer the hummus to a small saucepan. Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. Add a splash of olive oil or water if it becomes too thick.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the hummus in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
• For a quick stovetop method, place the hummus in a non-stick skillet over low heat. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even warming. Add a bit of olive oil if needed to maintain a smooth consistency.

• Food processor: Essential for blending all the ingredients into a smooth and creamy hummus.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure out the tahini, olive oil, and water accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the garlic, lemon juice, harissa, salt, and cumin.

• Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of the food processor to ensure all ingredients are well blended.

• Can opener: Needed to open the can of chickpeas.

• Strainer: Used to drain and rinse the chickpeas before adding them to the food processor.

• Knife: For mincing the garlic.

• Cutting board: Provides a surface for mincing the garlic.

• Serving dish: For presenting the finished hummus.

• Spoon: Handy for tasting and adjusting the seasoning if necessary.

Use canned chickpeas: Save time by using canned chickpeas instead of cooking dried ones. They are already cooked and ready to use.

Pre-minced garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic from a jar to avoid the hassle of peeling and mincing fresh garlic.

Measure ingredients ahead: Measure out all your ingredients before you start blending to streamline the process.

Food processor efficiency: Use a food processor with a powerful motor to blend the hummus quickly and smoothly.

Batch preparation: Make a larger batch of hummus and store it in the fridge for up to a week, saving time on future snacks.